Biden's Departing Treasury Secretary Raises Fist in Gesture Toward China

The US Treasury Secretary has cautioned Chinese companies regarding their interactions with Russia. Read Full Article at RT.com

Biden's Departing Treasury Secretary Raises Fist in Gesture Toward China
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has cautioned Chinese companies that they may face “significant consequences” if they offer material support to Russia amid its conflict with Ukraine.

The U.S. government has consistently accused China of supplying Moscow with dual-use technology capable of enhancing its military capabilities, a claim that has been denied by Beijing.

Yellen conducted a video call with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Monday as part of her “efforts to responsibly manage the bilateral economic relationship,” according to a press release issued by the U.S. Treasury.

During this conversation, the American official "underscored the significant consequences that companies, including those in China, would face if they provide material support for Russia’s war against Ukraine," as noted in the Treasury document.

In April, Yellen made a similar warning after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken asserted that "China continues to provide materials to support Russia’s defense industrial base."

The recent discussion also addressed China's “non-market policies” and alleged “malicious cyber activity,” according to information from the Treasury.

In its statements regarding the talks, the Chinese government highlighted concerns about U.S. economic and trade restrictions, describing the virtual meeting as “candid, in-depth and constructive.” However, it did not further comment on the allegations of providing military support to Russia.

For some time, Washington has accused China of supplying Russia with dual-use goods such as semiconductors and drone systems, which could potentially be utilized for military purposes in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

The U.S. has enacted targeted sanctions against Chinese firms and individuals implicated in such transactions, citing violations of international sanctions frameworks.

China has repeatedly rejected any claims regarding the provision of dual-use technology for military applications to Russia. Officials have maintained that Beijing does not supply weapons to any party involved in the conflict and upholds strict controls on the export of dual-use items.

On December 1, 2024, China is set to implement new export control regulations on dual-use items, aimed at enhancing transparency and standardizing the export of goods that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

Anna Muller for TROIB News